Bayfield

City Profile

Elevation:6,892'
Population: 1,695
Average Midsummer Temperature: 79 / 52 degrees

Bayfield is a charming, friendly, small town just 18 miles east of Durango. The town was named
for William A. Bay, who laid out the town in 1898 and established it in 1906. Bayfield has continued
to serve as a supply town and social center for the surrounding farmers and ranchers. The town has grown rapidly in the past 30 years from 320 residents in 1970 to around 1,700 now. This pretty area is a mix of the old and the new of a small ranching town in the beautiful Pine River Valley. It sits downstream from Vallecito Lake on the banks of the Pine River. The earliest residents of the Pine River Valley were the Ute Indians, and it wasn't until the late 1800s that the valley was settled by non-Indians. The first cattle were brought to the valley in 1875 and the valley opened up as ranchers discovered the fertile land.

Bayfield Chamber of Commerce: (970) 884-7372

Heritage Days - October 8

The town turns out to watch as a local rancher’s flock is herded through the historic downtown in an event called "sheep trailing." Demonstrations of shearing and wool spinning follow the parade of animals. This event also includes plenty of food and a 5K run.

Fourth of July Festivities - July 4
A parade is the highlight of this old-fashioned celebration, which includes a pancake breakfast, pet parade, live music and fireworks at dusk.